Question

Following admission of a RTA case, there is a spillage of blood on the hospital floor. Which disinfectant will you use to clean the floor

• A. Sodium Hypochlorite
• B. Ethyl alcohol
• C. Formaldehyde
• D. Chlorhexidine

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the event of a blood spill on a hospital floor following a Road Traffic Accident (RTA), it is crucial to effectively disinfect the area to prevent the spread of infectious agents. Among the options provided:

1. Sodium Hypochlorite
2. Ethyl alcohol
3. Formaldehyde
4. Chlorhexidine

The most appropriate choice for disinfecting blood spills is Sodium Hypochlorite.

Sodium Hypochlorite is commonly used in healthcare settings for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. For cleaning blood spills, a solution of 1:10 dilution (0.5%) of household bleach (which typically contains 5% sodium hypochlorite) is recommended. This concentration ensures effective disinfection while being safe for most surfaces.

Key reasons for using Sodium Hypochlorite:

• Efficacy: It is highly effective against bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Cost-effectiveness: It is inexpensive and easily available.
• Ease of use: Easy to prepare and apply on affected surfaces.

When handling Sodium Hypochlorite:

• Ensure proper ventilation in the area.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and gowns, to avoid skin contact.
• After application, allow sufficient contact time (at least 10 minutes) before wiping or rinsing the area.

In summary, Sodium Hypochlorite's advantages make it the ideal choice for quickly and safely mitigating infectious risks posed by blood spills in hospital environments.